The Ultimate Canadian Adventure

Just back from...

Canada

Canada is a land of cinematic contrasts—where sleek cityscapes give way to vast wilderness, and five-star indulgence sits comfortably beside raw, untamed nature. As Audley Travels number one independent agency, our Co-Founder and Creative Director, Stuart, was invited by the team to journey through this extraordinary part of Canada, swapping skyscrapers for snow-capped peaks, seaplanes for jeeps, and luxury hotels for remote lodges where grizzly bears roam the shores.

From the buzz of Whistler to the stillness of Klahoose Wilderness Resort, this was a trip that balanced adventure, indulgence, and a deep connection to nature—proof that Canada does luxury on its own breathtaking terms.

An epic

Canadian

adventure...

Canada had long been on my list of places I dreamed of exploring, but nothing could have braced me for the jaw-dropping landscapes of British Columbia, the ridiculously nice people, and the wild thrill of spotting a grizzly bear—because who doesn’t want a bear encounter as their travel souvenir?

Our hosts, Audley Travel, built us the most incredible itinerary brimming with captivating discoveries and excursions, yet still leaving room to soak in the stunning landscapes (some incredibly remote) and immerse ourselves in local culture. But first, let’s take a moment to appreciate Canada itself. This vast country, the second-largest in the world, is a patchwork of breathtaking scenery and rich history.

Did you know Canada is home to over two million lakes? Those staggering figures serve as a delightful reminder that while I may be just one person, I’m surrounded by an entire country bursting with beauty to explore. The best time to visit really depends on what you’re after: if you’re chasing stunning fall foliage, late September to October is perfect; for winter sports enthusiasts, December to March brings snow-covered slopes; and if vibrant city life and outdoor festivals are your jam, summer is the way to go, particularly from June to August.

Hello,

Vancouver

– where my journey started

My trip began with Vancouver rolling out the welcome mat, complete with crisp autumn air and a cityscape that looked like a postcard come to life. Nestled on the southwestern coast of Canada, Vancouver is a bustling metropolis known for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant arts scene. With a temperate climate that invites exploration year-round, this city is a haven for outdoor lovers and city dwellers alike–particularly avid walkers thanks to the expansive array of Pedestrian paths.

Checking into the boutique Wedgewood Hotel & Spa, a stunning female-owned Relais & Châteaux property in Downtown Vancouver was much-needed after a 9.5 hour flight from London—think supreme cosiness, Michelin-dining and exceptional family-led hospitality that makes you feel right at home. The executive room I stayed in was a delightful introduction to the hotel’s commitment to quality, but if you’re looking to really treat yourself, book a balcony penthouse suite overlooking Robson Square Gardens.

Vancouver’s charm really comes alive through its experiences. A cycling tour through Stanley Park was the perfect way to get my bearings, especially as it was mostly flat and paved—ideal for cyclists of all levels. As I pedalled along the seawall, I was surrounded by lush greenery and stunning vistas that made it hard to believe I was in the heart of a city. Pro tip: you’ll want to keep your camera handy because the views are picture-perfect! In mere minutes, I transitioned from bustling streets to tranquil paths lined with towering trees, soaking in the serene beauty of nature all around me.

Next on my itinerary was the Gastown gastronomic tour, and let me tell you, Vancouver’s food scene is nothing short of yummy. With the city’s inaugural Michelin Guide recognising eight restaurants with their first star in 2022, it’s no surprise that the culinary landscape is thriving. I fully embraced this experience, sampling everything from artisanal cheeses to fresh seafood. If you’re visiting, don’t miss out on trying Blue Water Cafe for an introduction to sustainable seafood; it’s a must!

A whale of a time in

Victoria

For a break from the hustle of Vancouver, we were treated to a thrilling seaplane ride to Victoria—a 35-minute flight that was more bucket-list adventure than just casual commute. Victoria, nestled on Vancouver Island, is the capital of British Columbia and known for its charming mix of historic architecture and vibrant gardens. With a laid-back vibe that offers a nice contrast to the bustling city, it makes for a wonderful day-trip to soak in the beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Or, like us, a once-in-a-lifetime treat of Whale watching.

Pretty much as soon as we landed, we headed to the harbour, where we were whisked off to board a catamaran. Whale watching here is an experience like no other, with the chance to spot orcas, humpbacks, and grey whales in their natural habitat. The best time for whale watching in this region is typically from March to October, when these magnificent creatures migrate along the coast. You can choose from a half-day trip, or a sunset tour in the Summer months which any budding photographers will love—Golden hour is next-level here.

Next stop –

Whistler

mountains calling

After playing orca eye-spy in Victoria, we headed back to Vancouver before making the scenic drive to Whistler for a change of scenery and pace. Nestled in the Coast Mountains, this iconic resort town is well worth the detour, whether you’re visiting in winter for the epic slopes or in summer for mountain biking and hiking trails. We checked into Four Seasons Resort Whistler, an idyllic hotel set against the mountains that perfectly embodies the signature Four Seasons style we all know and love—only with with roaring fireplaces and a dedication to après-ski and s’mores.

Even the ‘entry-level’ mountain-view rooms where I stayed had some of the best views I’ve witnessed from a hotel, with floor-to-ceiling windows that let in an abundance of natural light, and ample space to unwind. And in my humble opinion, a hotel room is only complete once you’re given access to an oversized terry towelling bathrobe, and this place delivered on that and so much more! During my stay, I explored most of the room types, and if you want to level up your experience, a sleepover in the Alpine Suite would be perfect for a family trip.

We absolutely loved the all-day Braidwood Tavern, which was the go-to spot for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and everything in between. It’s got some of the best IPAs around, including the “Coast Mountain Hope You’re Happy IPA.” And if you’re in the mood for a classic Canadian dish, you can’t miss their poutine, which dates back to the 1950s. Of course, it’s elevated at Four Seasons, and we all shared the “What The Duck Poutine,” designed for sharing, and it was a hit at the table.

As for experiences, you can’t visit Whistler without trying the Jeep Glacier Safari. This adventure takes you up Blackcomb Mountain in a 4×4, navigating stunning alpine trails to the glacier—this had to be one of my favourite parts of the trip (though I’ve said this for every part!) There’s also the Four Seasons Spa, named Canada’s Best Resort Spa 2024 by the World Spa Awards. And if you’re feeling adventurous, check out the helicopter tours.

Don’t forget: Swords Travel is a Four Seasons preferred partner so we can treat our clients to VIP perks like complimentary room upgrades, resort credit and daily breakfasts. Find out more here.

Into the wild –

Klahoose Wilderness Resort

From Whistler, I hopped on a short flight to Powell River, followed by a boat transfer to Klahoose Wilderness Resort. Tucked away in the remote Desolation Sound, Klahoose is an Indigenous-owned eco-lodge that offers a deep connection with nature. The Klahoose First Nation, who have inhabited this land for generations, share their rich heritage through storytelling, art, and the preservation of traditional practices in every aspect of the lodge experience. I stayed in a cosy two-bedroom cabin, waking up each morning to the soothing sounds of water lapping against the shore and the gentle rustle of leaves. The lodge’s commitment to sustainability and the preservation of the local environment made my stay feel even more meaningful.

The main draw? Bears. Seeing a grizzly in the wild is something I’ll never forget, but one bear, in particular, stole the show—Snorkel Bear. This guy had a unique way of fishing, diving underwater to scoop up salmon before surfacing to feast. Watching him in his element, surrounded by untouched wilderness, was truly the highlight of my trip. It was amusing to think that while I was savouring the delicious grilled salmon at the lodge, these bears were indulging in the same treat right outside—a delightful reminder of the abundant natural resources surrounding us, where both bears and guests can enjoy the freshest catch.

Reflecting on

Canada

Looking back, this trip had it all—urban exploration, breathtaking wildlife encounters, and world-class luxury. Vancouver was vibrant, Whistler was exhilarating, and Klahoose was pure magic. The balance of adventure and relaxation was spot on, making it an ideal itinerary for couples, families, and anyone looking to truly immerse themselves in Canada’s wild beauty.

A huge thank you to Audley Travel for curating such an incredible experience. Their attention to detail and expertise ensured that every moment was memorable and seamless.

Would I recommend this journey? In a heartbeat. Just be prepared—you might find yourself planning your next trip before you’ve even left.

To speak to Stuart about his trip, or enquire about visiting Canada,
give our team a call today on 0203 907 1100 or fill in the form below.

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Australasia & Oceania

Caribbean, Mexico & Bermuda

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Indian Ocean

Middle East

South America

UK & Ireland

USA & Canada

0203 1891381

Africa

Asia

Australasia & Oceania

Caribbean, Mexico & Bermuda

Europe

Indian Ocean

Middle East

South America

UK & Ireland

USA & Canada

Stuart Swords

Just back from...

Canada

An epic

Canadian

adventure...

Hello,

Vancouver

– where my journey started

A whale of a time in

Victoria

Next stop –

Whistler

mountains calling

Into the wild –

Klahoose Wilderness Resort

Reflecting on

Canada

To speak to Stuart about his trip, or enquire about visiting Canada,give our team a call today on 0203 907 1100 or fill in the form below.

Plan your trip

When would you like to go?

Where would you like to go?

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Select your budget per person

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Tell us about your trip

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To speak to Stuart about his trip, or enquire about visiting Canada,
give our team a call today on 0203 907 1100 or fill in the form below.